If you’re craving soft, fluffy, and warm bread rolls that are perfect for any meal, this homemade recipe is your answer. With just a few ingredients, including flour and eggs, you can create delightful rolls that will be a hit at the dinner table or as a snack. These rolls are perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or as a side to your favorite dishes. The sesame seeds on top add a delicious crunch and enhance the flavor of these homemade bread rolls.
Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- 570g wheat flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 8g dry yeast (approximately 2 teaspoons)
- 360ml warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 egg + 1 egg white
- 20ml vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by placing 570g of wheat flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 8g of dry yeast into a large mixing bowl. Stir the dry ingredients together until well combined. This helps evenly distribute the yeast, which is essential for the dough to rise properly.
2. Add Warm Water and Mix
Next, add 360ml of warm water to the flour mixture. The water should be warm to the touch (about 110°F or 43°C), not hot, as water that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Mix everything together until the ingredients begin to form a dough.
3. Knead the Dough
Once the dough has formed, transfer it to a clean, floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if the dough feels too sticky. Kneading helps activate the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread rolls their soft, airy texture.
4. Add Oil and Knead Again
After the dough is smooth, add 20ml of vegetable oil to the dough. Continue kneading for another 2 to 3 minutes, incorporating the oil fully into the dough. The oil will make the dough softer and help create a richer texture in the rolls.
5. Divide and Rest
Once the dough is fully kneaded, divide it into 12 equal parts. You can use your hands or a dough cutter to divide the dough. Shape each portion into a small ball or roll. Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the rolls are spaced evenly apart so they have room to rise.
Cover the baking tray with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rest for 20 minutes. This rest period allows the dough to relax and rise slightly before the final proofing.
6. Final Rising
After the dough has rested, cover the baking tray with a towel again and place it in a warm place to rise for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the rolls to puff up and double in size.
7. Prepare the Egg Wash
While the rolls are rising, prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk (from the extra egg) and 2 teaspoons of milk. This mixture will give the rolls a golden, shiny finish when baked.
8. Brush and Sprinkle
Once the rolls have risen, use a pastry brush to gently brush the egg wash onto the tops of the rolls. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake. After brushing the egg wash, sprinkle the rolls with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
9. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. You can check the doneness by gently tapping the bottom of a roll – it should sound hollow when cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve
Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This will help the rolls set and allow the steam to escape, ensuring they stay soft. Serve the bread rolls warm with your favorite meal, or enjoy them on their own with a little butter.
Tips for Perfect Bread Rolls
- Use warm water: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Knead thoroughly: Kneading is crucial for developing the gluten structure, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Don’t rush through this step.
- Resting is key: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment. The warmth helps activate the yeast, ensuring the dough rises properly.
- Use an egg wash: Brushing the rolls with an egg wash creates a beautiful golden brown finish and adds a bit of shine to the bread.
- Sesame seeds for extra flavor: The sesame seeds not only add a nice crunch but also provide a nutty flavor that complements the soft bread.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the dough has been kneaded, cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, divide it into rolls, and let them rise before baking.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, these bread rolls freeze well. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread machine for this recipe. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients and setting the kneading and rising times. Once the dough has risen, you can shape and bake the rolls as directed.
What if I don’t have sesame seeds?
If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can use other seeds such as poppy seeds or sunflower seeds, or simply skip the topping entirely. You can also try brushing the rolls with melted butter after baking for added flavor.
Conclusion
These Homemade Bread Rolls are simple to make and yield a soft, fluffy texture that will complement any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or using them to make sandwiches, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and yeast, you can enjoy fresh, warm rolls that are far superior to anything store-bought. Try them today and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own delicious bread!